Insights What does digital transformation mean for the engineering sector?

Digital transformation has completely changed the working world. With the rise of cloud software, the internet of things and automation, global businesses can now communicate and solve problems faster, as well as serve a far wider audience. Engineering remains a cornerstone of the global economy and today, engineers are more collaborative and have access to a vast amount of data. Digitisation has changed the way engineers operate and make decisions, as there’s a much broader scope of technology to utilise.

There’s no doubt that digital transformation is driving efficiency in the workplace. At AtkinsRéalis , we understand the importance of organisational efficiency and hiring the top talent to deliver the best work, and drive results. As a group, we’re comprised of Atkins, Faithful+Gould and Acuity, and we partner with clients all over the world in a range of sectors, including engineering. So, what does digital transformation mean for the engineering sector? Below, we outline how digital technology is re-shaping engineering.

The impact of digital on engineering

Digital transformation has had a major effect on engineering – a sector that has always evolved at a rapid pace. New technologies are speeding up product development, transportation and real-time data management. The increasing use of digital technology has made engineering a much more data-led industry. It’s now more important than ever that businesses equip themselves with the right technologies for sustainable growth in the sector.

One of the main ways digitalisation has impacted engineering is through cloud computing. While it’s not a new technology, it has evolved to a level that can be utilised by engineers more effectively and efficiently. For example, cloud computing allows engineers to store their digital designs all in the same place before construction. The value of cloud computing in engineering relies on data capture, 3D modelling, and creating the best possible customer experience.

Digital transformation and the rise of big data have paved the way for digital twin applications, which are hugely beneficial for engineering firms. A digital twin is a virtual model of a physical object and it’s used to replicate real-world assets to gather and analyse data to predict how they will perform. Therefore, digital transformation has paved the way for predictive analysis in engineering and new ways of collaborating and innovating.

What’s the future of engineering?

Digital transformation means that engineering will likely become even more complex and innovative in the future. Engineers will need to be more versatile and adaptable to overcome challenging issues around the cities we live in, as well as our transport and infrastructure. For example, climate change has been an ongoing issue for many years now and it’s created a need for sustainable practices in our everyday lives. This means engineers will need to focus on building sustainable structures that have a positive effect on the environment.

Digital transformation and technology will play a key role in enabling a more sustainable future by providing the tools to see where emissions can be reduced through energy-saving. Furthermore, as a result of digital transformation, augmented reality has the potential to redefine the future of engineering. Augmented reality – which is an interactive version of the real world – can be used for assembly, engineering training and quality control. However, going forward, businesses must ensure they plan how they will integrate augmented reality and other advanced software, to ensure a smooth and efficient process. Above all, digital transformation means the engineering sector will rely much more on digital data, analytics and virtual representations of the real world to deliver the best products in the right environments.

Opportunities in engineering

As technology continues to advance, there will be an increased demand for talented engineers who can develop and design new solutions. AtkinsRéalis has an excellent reputation for recruiting the best professionals into a range of engineering roles globally. This includes locations in Asia, the UK and the US – and we partner with professionals at all levels of seniority. We have civil engineer jobs, structural engineer jobs and electrical engineer jobs – all of which are ripe for digital transformation.

Engineer your career with AtkinsRéalis

At AtkinsRéalis , we’re always investing in digital capabilities for our core markets, which include cities and development, industrial and manufacturing, as well as transportation. We’re a global company that provides procurement, engineering and construction services to a wide variety of clients. We consistently deliver sustainable solutions to those we work with. As a group, we’re driven by our ambition to engineer a better future for our planet and its people. That’s why we’re committed to reaching our ESG (Environmental, social and corporate governance) targets and contributing to a Net Zero economy.